As digital transformations continue to sweep through almost every industry in the UK, we spoke with our Business Change expert, Sam McWilliam to find out what the biggest trends are for 2022.
Sam said:
“In 2022 we can expect to see increased use and implementation of many key digital technologies, with some 2021 newbies now becoming fundamentals of the business.
Organisations have seen how digital technology can support them across the board and are now unlocking the full potential of many of these systems.
Of course, without the core talent in place to implement and manage these technologies, digital investment can often go to waste. This is why it is increasingly important for businesses to recruit strategically for skilled individuals while also continuing to train and nurture their existing employees.
Trends are ever changing in this fast placed market, so I’ve compiled a list of some new and pre-existing digital technologies and why I think they will increase in popularity and usage in 2022."
Top 5 trends to watch are:
- AI Automation
- Cloud-based solutions
- Data protection and cyber security
- Hybrid and remote working
- The data lifecycle
Complete integration of AI Automation:
For large and small companies alike process automation across all levels of the business (marketing, CRM, sales, etc.) is an invaluable and efficient tool. Automation will not only save employees precious time in responding to customers, but it can also gather data and help with forecasting and making strategic business decisions.
While many organisations began putting automation processes in place in 2021, the creativity and level of usage is only set to increase as AI becomes more intelligent and users more skilled. And why are so many organisations investing more time and money into these processes?? Because they’re the simplest way to reach scalability, efficiency, and reduced costs. Win, win, win.
Maximizing cloud-based solutions:
The benefits of using the cloud are no longer negotiable – they’re fact. While the cloud was originally appealing as a cost savings exercise for many organisations, it is now being recognized for its full potential in innovation. The flexibility of the cloud enables leaders to reimagine and reengineer their entire portfolio in line with their goals. Additionally, moving towards the cloud can reduce the datacentre carbon footprint of your corporation – a bonus benefit as sustainability becomes core to business strategy.
Prioritizing data protection and cybersecurity:
This is massively and increasingly important. I’m sure almost every organisation has experienced the current wave of phishing scams – with fraudsters disguising themselves as the ‘CEO’, to gather information from unsuspecting employees who provide their credit card details. These types of scams can easily This is massively and increasingly important. I’m sure almost every organisation has experienced the current wave of phishing scams – with fraudsters disguising themselves as the ‘CEO’, to gather information from unsuspecting employees who provide their credit card details.
These types of scams can easily be sent straight to junk, however more advanced cyber attackers are rapidly improving their tech to keep up with defensive software updates and gather personal data and bank details. It’s therefore of utmost importance for organisations to keep ahead of any danger with the latest data protection and cybersecurity software (especially as online transactions continue to increase!).
Structured hybrid and remote working:
As hybrid and remote working are now common practice, in order to secure top talent organisations need to offer more than just standard hardware and a basic set up for home workers. Collaboration tools, 5G, powerful computers or laptops loaded up with the latest software, as well as learning management systems are fast becoming norms while companies steer away from a hard focus on where, when and how people work. There’s no need for concern – you’ll reap the benefits of your investments through quality work and more access to top talent.
Owning the entire data lifecycle:
Everyone is aware of the importance of data. However, not every organisation has a solid grasp on their full data lifecycle – from cradle to grave. Improved tech can better access, archive, and harness date to the benefit of the organisation, while also making trends and opportunities much easier to identify.
It’s evident that digital innovation is ever advancing - and it’s exciting to see how the market continues to adapt to new trends.
As a specialist in business change, I have a strong network of talented individuals with the skills in place to transform your organisation.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch for a confidential chat into how I can support your 2022 recruitment strategy.
Sam McWilliam, Business Change Specialist
01962 659487 | Sam@talentlocker.co.uk